Tate Modern by Train: Everything You Need to Know

The Tate Modern is easy to reach by train on National Rail trains from around the UK, and through London on efficient London Underground services. On the South Bank of the River Thames, opposite the Millennium Bridge, Tate Modern is served by London Blackfriars station.

Arrivals from Cambridge, Luton, Brighton, Bedford, Rainham (Kent), St Albans, Horsham, and more call at London Blackfriars, one of the most central London stations. These services are all operated by Thameslink. The nearest tube station to the Tate Modern is also Blackfriars, which is connected to the Circle and District Lines.

London Blackfriars has step-free access to all platforms, as well as accessible toilets and a seating area for passengers. The station also has refreshments, an ATM machine, and bicycle storage facilities. After arriving at London Blackfriars, you’ll be only 5 minutes from the Tate Modern. Walk along the Thames Path, then Holland Street, following signs to the Tate Modern.

Entry to the Tate Modern is free, though some exhibitions will require paid entrance. Costs vary, and concessionary rates are available for disabled visitors, children, and anyone aged 16–25. Most exhibitions allow guests to buy tickets on the day; however, it is a good idea to book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Opening times for the Tate Modern are: Monday to Sunday 10.00–18.00 (last entry: 17.30).

Tip: Small bags can be brought into the Tate Modern (subject to security checks), but items larger than cabin bag size (55cm x 40cm x 20cm) will be refused entrance.

As one of the UK’s premier modern and contemporary art galleries, the Tate Modern has something for everyone, Here are our top picks for what to do at the Tate Modern:

Visit the free collection

Like many London museums and galleries, entry into the Tate Modern is free. There is always a wide array of innovative and inspiring modern art on display for visitors to browse, from performance pieces to object and collage work.

Experience an exhibition

Special exhibitions allow visitors to delve deeper into some of the most impressive modern and contemporary art in the world today. The brightest and most exciting artists exhibit some of their latest work, with themes from climate change to identity developed and interrogated through a variety of media.

A meal with a view

The Tate Modern Restaurant and Bar at the top of the Tate Modern boasts panoramic views across the Thames, and a delicious menu curated by Head Chef Chris Gillard to match. Try seasonal British dishes, an all-day bar menu, or a classic afternoon tea.

Great art and great food go hand in hand! After basking in modern and contemporary art, you’ll probably be wanting somewhere to sit back and have a bite to eat, a few drinks, or a creative afternoon. Here are some of our top picks nearby:

Restaurants

For places to eat near the Tate Modern, choose from The Tate Modern Restaurant and Bar, or one of many nearby independent eateries. Whether you’re looking for Indian or Italian cuisine, you’ll find an array of affordable and tasty options within a short walk of the gallery. For something high end, try Mallow at Borough Market, an artful and sleek restaurant with quality and innovative dishes.

Bars

The Corner, Tate Modern's late night bar, hosts a series of eclectic events, making it one of the most lively venues along the South Bank. Order craft beers on tap and enjoy views of the river, as you experience the Tate Modern long after the gallery has closed its doors for the night.

Cafés

If you want somewhere cosy to sit and think about art after your visit to the Tate Modern, there are lots of cafés in the vicinity. From Saint Nine Coffee to the Shakespeare Globe Foyer Café, there is no shortage of places to sip a soy latte within five minutes of the Tate Modern.

Sheffield to London

Taking the train to the Tate Modern is fast and easy. Passengers from Sheffield to London can get efficient, direct trains with East Midlands Railway. After arriving at London St Pancras, you’ll be able to swap to a Thameslink service to reach London Blackfriars, or hop onto the Circle or District Lines.

Coventry to London

From Coventry to London you’ll arrive in London Marylebone in 1 hour 44 minutes, with one change in Leamington Spa. After travelling on West Midlands Trains and Chiltern Railways service, you’ll then be able to take the London Underground to complete your journey to the Tate Modern.

Cambridge to London Blackfriars

Travel from Cambridge to London Blackfriars in just 1 hour 15 minutes with Thameslink. A convenient route that takes you almost to the door of the Tate Modern, culture seekers can experience London for less when you buy cheap train tickets with TrainPal. And don’t forget, you can save even more when you add a Railcard discount.

*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

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